For collectors of vinyl records, condition is everything. As a vinyl dealer I have seen grown men loose control of their bowels at the sight of one tiny crease on the corner tip of a sleeve, while projectile vomiting is often instantly induced by the sight of ring wear or warping.

Here are some rules of thumb that, if followed, should extended the life and playability of your vinyl, not to mention deter the type of bodily fluid leakage previously discussed.

Temperature

Vinyl records are very susceptible to extreme changes in temperature. Don't store your vinyl next to a heater or radiator, in the oven, or near to other sources of heat such as direct sunlight or an artificial light. Heat causes vinyl to warp out of shape. Try to maintain a constant temperature, preferably around 60 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity and Moisture

If you think that projectile vomiting is somewhat of an over reaction to the sight of ring wear, you should see what happens when a collector finds mould or mildew on the album jacket or inner sleeve. Humidity isn't so much of a problem in cooler European countries, but in some warmer countries it's a real issue. A constant humidity level of 40-50% is advisable. Better still keep your collection in air tight surroundings such as a cabinet or in sealed boxes to avoid further deterioration or damage.

Protection

Many collectors pay a premium for records that are still sealed, but that's because it guarantees the sleeve beneath the seal is still in pristine condition and to a collector that will make their nipples itch with excitement. If vinyl records are to be stored for long periods, that seal should really be removed. Factory seals tend to shrink over time and can cause the sleeve underneath to bend or crease. Instead, remove the seal and protect the record with a good strong PVC transparent PVC sleeve.

Stacking

Repeat after me, Thou shalt not stack vinyl records on top of each other'. This is the first law of storing vinyl. The accumulative weight of the vinyl causes the ones at the bottom of the stack to become crushed and damaged. Always store your vinyl in the vertical position and don't be tempted to squeeze too many records into too small a space.

Learn more about this author, Robert Stephenson.
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